Spring Newsletter - adss.org.au · Turner Freeman Lawyers Workplace Health & Safety Qld ... Redcliffe and Prince Charles Hospital ... Square on 2nd October

Asbestos Related Disease Support Society QLD Inc.16 Campbell Street, Bowen Hills QLD 4006

PO Box 280, Spring Hill QLD 4004Phone: 1800 776 412 [email protected] www.asbestos-disease.com.au

October 2014

Spring Newsletter

Invitation to SYMPOSIUM 2014

Information StandsAir LiquideAsbestos Related Disease Nutrition StudyAsbestos Related Disease Support Society Qld Inc.DOTS Allied Health Services Pty Ltd

Melanoma Patients AustraliaQld RehabTurner Freeman LawyersWorkplace Health & Safety Qld

The Killer ThaT Still SurroundS uS

RSVP 14th October 20141800 776 412 – [email protected]

SpeakerSThady Blundell, Chairperson

Professor Roger Allen, Asbestos A-Z

Professor Judith Bauer, Nutrition and Alternate Treatment

Dr Pretoria Bilinski, Oncology and Palliative Care

Dr Richard Slaughter, Radiology and Asbestos

Barry Robson, President ADFA, James Hardie Compensation Fund

Venue: Traders Hotel Roma Street Brisbane. (Above Roma St, Station)

Registration from 8.30am, coffee, tea and biscuits on arrival for a prompt 9.00am start. Further Refreshments from 12:00pm

Free communiTy evenT

W e d n e S d a y 2 9 t h O c t O b e r 2 0 1 4 9 . 0 0 a m t O 1 2 . 0 0 n O O n

BOOK NOW – SEATS ARE LIMITED Sp

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2 | Spring Newsletter October 2014

In this issue...Presidents Report 4

Secretaries Report 6

Race Day! 8

James Hardie Compensation Fund 10

Nausea in Patients with Mesothelioma and with Chronic Asbestos Disease 11

Home Building and Renovations 12

Walk From Townsville to Brisbane to Raise Money and Awareness 13

Updated Asbestos Waste Disposal Information 14

A Costly Catastrophe 15

Tags will be Fitted to Meter Boxes of Homes 16

Donations 17

HIA Sunday Mail Home Show 18

Raising the Roof on Asbestos Awareness 19

Office hours over the Christmas breakPLeASe note thAt the offIce wILL be cLoSeD fRom monDAy 15 DecembeR 2014 tILL monDAy 12 JAnuARy 2015.

Any members needing assistance or knowing anyone needing assistance between the above dates, in an emergency please call the mobile 0408 758 963 and a non-emergency call 1800 776 412 and leave a brief message.

As Christmas will soon be upon us, The Committee Members of ARDSSQ would like to take this opportunity to wish you all a very safe and an enjoyable Christmas.

October 2014 Spring Newsletter | 3

Presidents ReportHelen Colbert

Welcome to ARDSSQ Newsletter Spring Edition.

I would like to express my sincere gratitude and

appreciation to everyone for your support, words

of encouragement and condolence I have received

following the passing of my husband Raymond

(Ray) immediate late Secretary of the Society.

Your thoughtfulness and kindness will always

remain with me.

I would like to warmly welcome Amanda Richards

to her new role with the Society.

On the 1 September 2014 the Society’s

Management Committee appointed Amanda

Richards to the position of General Manager.

Amanda comes to ARDSSQ after over 25 years

in the union movement. Amanda has a nursing

background and worked at the Royal Brisbane,

Mt Olivet, Redcliffe and Prince Charles Hospital

(where she worked the majority of her nursing

career) and Buderim Private.

After having her son, Amanda went to work at the

Queensland Nurses Union where she held many

roles over 20 years of employment. Her main area

of expertise and passion was however health and

safety and workers compensation.

In 2008 Amanda was elected to the Assistant

Secretary role at the Queensland Council of

Unions, making her the most senior female union

leader in Queensland. Amanda left the QCU in

2013.

Amanda has an Associate Diploma in Labour

Studies from the University of Adelaide, and

a Diploma in Work Health and Safety. She is a

member of the Australian Institute of Corporate

Directors and Women on Boards.

Amanda is a member of the Q Leave Board, the

Bert Training Board and Workplace Health and

Safety Queensland Board. She was previously a

member of the Q Super and Q Comp Boards.

Support Group Break up party’s!

cheRmSIDe

Brisbane North Social Support Group Christmas break up meeting for 2014 is being held on Wednesday 5 November.

You are invited to join our group at the Chermside Library at 375 Hamilton Road (Corner Kittyhawk Drive) Chermside from 9.30am till 11.30am. As this will be the last meeting for 2014, I encourage you all to attend. The theme of the day will be all things Christmas. Christmas decorations, Christmas food and Christmas cheer. If you would like to join in on this festivity, please bring along a plate of Christmas treats to share.

Kindly RSVP to either Lyn Parks 3886 3112 or Kerrie Williams at the ARDSSQ office 1800 776 412 by Monday 3rd November, 2014.

SunnybAnK hILLS

You are invited to attend our Brisbane South Social Support Group Christmas lunch on Thursday 20 November at the Calamvale Hotel, corner of Compton and Beaudesert Roads Calamvale. Our lunch will be held in the Circuit Bar where a roast meal will cost around $8.45 (Other meal options are available). Arrive around 11.30am for a 12pm lunch.

We will also be having a Secret Santa sack. If you wish to participate, please bring along a small gift to the value of $5 per person and upon arrival you will be given a number and during the course of the lunch you will be able to receive a surprise secret Santa gift.

Please RSVP to Kay or Kerrie at the ARDSSQ office on 1800 776 412 by Tuesday 18th November, 2014.

If you require any further information regarding our social support groups, please do not hesitate to contact the society on 1800 776 412.


The Annual General Meeting was held on the 9 September 2014 where members were elected to the following Executive Positions.

President Helen Colbert

Vice President/chairperson Andrew Ramsay

Secretary Amanda Richards

Assistant Secretary Kerrie Williams

treasurer Kay Ravbar

committee member Eileen Stagg

committee member Beverley Robertson

committee member Trish Ramsay

committee member Patricia Cini

committee member Bud Neiland

committee member Jennifer Pengelly

committee member Rodney Towerton

I would like to thank everyone for their ongoing support and I look forward to working with the new committee into the future.

helen colbert

PRESIDENT

Presidents Report... continued

Left to Right – Rod Towerton, Eileen Stagg, Trish Ramsay, Andrew Ramsay, Bev Robertson, Kay Ravbar, Helen Colbert, Jennifer Pengelly, Amanda Richards, Pat Cini and Kerrie Williams

Absent: Bud Neiland

The New Management Committee


Secretaries ReportAmanda Richards

Thank you for the honour of electing me to Secretary of ARDSSQ I look forward to working with the new committee over the next year and a big thank you to the previous committee members for all their hard work.

The news that James Hardie asbestos compensation fund is seeking to pay victims via installments is absolutely outrageous and I would encourage you to write letters to the editor of the Sydney Morning Herald or ring the radio stations about this issue. We are keeping in contact with Barry Robson at ADFA so we are kept abreast of the latest activities in this area.

The Queensland Government is seeking to amend the public health act in order for the Queensland Government to pick up the liability of Local government in order that they can manage non work related asbestos issues. ARDSSQ have requested a meeting with the Minister for Health in regards to this matter.

Workplace Health and Safety Queensland sought a meeting with ARDSSQ recently to discuss health monitoring and asbestos. They have advised that they have delayed the introduction of this section of the Work Health and Safety Regulations until the National review of the Work Health and Safety Legislation is completed.

There are many activities happening at a national level to raise awareness of Asbestos. The Asbestos Safety and Eradication Agency has partnered with the Lung Foundation to run workshops for the Health Professionals, GP’s,

Practice Nurses and the community around Australia. The Queensland workshops are proposed for May 2015.

The Asbestos Diseases Research Institute, Asbestos Diseases Foundation of Australia are also running an Asbestos Awareness campaign through the Asbestos Education Committee. The campaign is aimed to assist groups who have minimal resources. This campaign incorporates the Blue Lamington Drive and the “Don’t play Renovation Roulette – Get to know asbestos this november” campaign.

Up Coming Events

•ARDSSQ will have an awareness stall at Safe Work Week’s Big Breakfast in King George Square on 2nd October.

•13 October will see ARDSSQ holding an awareness stall at Greenbank RSL for Men’s Week.

•ARDSSQ annual Symposium will be held at the Traders Hotel on Wednesday 25th October invitation will be sent out shortly.

•The inaugural International Conference on Asbestos Awareness and Management will be held in Melbourne at Palladium at Crown from the 16 – 18th November. I will be attending on behalf of the Society.

•Asbestos Awareness Week will be the 24th – 28th November, we are organising to do a number of awareness stalls in hospitals and other facilities such as TAFE’s this year.


•Our Ecumenical Service will be held on the 28 November at 11 am at the Cathedral of St Stephen, Elizabeth Street, Brisbane. This will be our 22nd year holding this service in dedication of those who have lost their battle to an asbestos related disease. Light refreshments will be served after the service. Invitations will be sent closer to the time.

•Trevor Gillmeister in memory of his late father who passed on after a battle with an asbestos related disease, will be undertaking a mammoth walk from Townsville to Brisbane

between the 26 September and 27 October. By undertaking this walk, Trevor hopes to raise over $100,000 for ARDSSQ and raise awareness of asbestos in the community. As Trevor passes through certain towns and cities he will also be holding events to help raise money. You will be able to track Trevor’s journey at his website www.walkforawareness.com.au

Amanda RichardsSECRETARY / GENERAL MANAGER

Secretaries Report... continued

Safe Work Week’s Big Breakfast in King George Square – over 400 information bags were handed out to the city community while on their way to their workplace.

Amanda Richards, Shane Webcke – The Safe Work Week Ambassador & Andrew Ramsay

Amanda Richards & Jarrod Bleijie – The Attorney General and Minister for Justice


Brisbane Racing had organised 7 races for us which were sponsored by the following groups:

•Turner Freeman Lawyers

•CFMEU United Queensland

•CBUS

•Electrical Trades Union

•BERT/CIP

•United Voice

•Queensland Council of Unions

We had blue skies, a bit of a breeze (well a bit chilly by the end of the day) and great company - over 1300 tickets were sold.

People started arriving from about 11am and the party started! I even heard that some arrived in a Hummer!

The ladies went all out as you can see by the photos with a spectacular array of frocks, hats and fascinators. Some of the men didn’t scrub up too badly either.

People were entertained throughout the day by our fantastic MC Mark Forbes who had a series of activities to keep people amused, such as the wheelbarrow races, fashions on the field and other forms of silliness.

We did have a few serious notes on the day, a minute silence to show our respects to Ray Colbert the immediate past Secretary. Michael Ravbar’s speech (Secretary, CFMEU) and our President’s speech when she awarded the Shirley White Cup to the Electrical Trades Union who will hold the cup in trust for the next twelve months.

Race Day The 2014 Charity Race Day was a Spectacular Day!

Welcoming Address delivered by Michael Ravbar – CFMEU QLD

MC of the day Mark Forbes in discussion with ARDSSQ Ambassador, Trevor Gillmeister, about his embarkment on his Asbestos Walk for Awareness.

Mark Forbes and Bud Neiland in full swing at

Auction time.

Congratulations to Damon Clarke (on left) a delegate for CFMEU Qld. 1st Prize Winner in the Trailer Raffle on the day.

Winners of Best Dressed Couple Category for Fashions on the Field


The raffle was our traditional trailer full of products donated by our many supporters along with many other prizes donated to us ending up with seven prize draws.

•All Trades Queensland

•Sealy of Australia

•Creative Safety Initiatives

•Nirvana Rejuvenation Spa & Hair Salon

•Future Skills

•Forest Meiers

•Clayfield Markets

•Trade Glass

•Andrew and Trish Ramsay

•Panda Pearls

•Normanby Hotel

•Hamper Me

•Union Shopper

•Corinne Strong

•AIA and DCAQ

Damon Clarke was the lucky winner of the trailer of goods.

The auction however was where the action happened with record bids happening over the various items. Thank you to everyone for purchasing our auction items.

A very big thank you must go out to the CFMEU who without their support this event would not be as successful as it is and to Turner Freeman for their ongoing assistance to help the event get up and running.

A special thank you to the girls in the office Kay and Kerrie, and also Bud and Andrew for their many and varied activities to make this day happen. Our volunteers also put in a sterling effort helping make sure things ran smoothly on the day.

Finally, a huge thank you to all our sponsors, people who donated products and time, the people who bought tickets, you all contributed to a great day raising lots of money for people who suffer from asbestos related diseases.

Jess Kanofski, winner of Best Dressed Female for Fashions on the Field (Proudly Sponsored by AIA and DCAQ). Prize presented by Ann-Marie Allan

from AMWU.

Winner of the Shirley White Cup, Race 4, was the Electrical Trades Union QLD. Congratulations!


James Hardie Compensation Fund

Members of the Society may have recently seen press coverage relating to the James Hardie Compensation Fund and the prospect that the Fund may seek to pay out in instalments rather than lump sums to those who claim compensation against it. The Fund does not pay out claims in respect of former James Hardie employees – these persons are subject to workers’ compensation insurance policies. The Fund pays out in respect of court claims lodged against it for those with asbestos disease who came in contact with James Hardie products outside of employment with James Hardie. Under principles relating to court claims, all such claims are paid out as lump sums.

The James Hardie Compensation Fund is formally known as the Asbestos Injuries Compensation Fund (AICF). This is a separate legal entity to James Hardie and is responsible for all James Hardie asbestos related claims in the past and into the future.

James Hardie’s requirement to contribute to the Fund is subject to what is known as the Amended Final Funding Agreement. Pursuant to this Agreement, James Hardie is required to annually contribute to the AICF based on a complicated accounting formulation.

It is the AICF who has raised the issue of altering the way in which claims are paid out as there is a concern that the Fund could run short of money as soon as 2017.

Previously, the New South Wales Government, with the assistance of the Commonwealth Government, has stepped in three times to inject money into the Fund and these monies have been fully repaid by James hardie over time. What has recently occurred is that there has been a spike in mesothelioma claims against James Hardie. The concern is that the James Hardie contribution to the Fund pursuant to the Funding Agreement will lead to a shortfall. One analysis has indicated that there could be an $85 million shortfall in the 2016 financial year.

At this stage the situation is unresolved. It is not proposed that the method of calculating compensation for principles relating to compensation be altered, just that compensation in certain circumstances be paid in instalments. What those circumstances and how protracted the instalments would be is unknown. Asbestos support groups around the country, including the Society, are keeping abreast of the situation and the Society will keep members informed. At this stage though, there is no current change to the payment of compensation to those who bring claims against the James Hardie Fund. All claims are being paid in full at the present moment.

thady blundell SOCIETY LEGAL ADVISER


Nausea in Patients with Mesothelioma and with Chronic Asbestos Disease

Nausea is the unpleasant sensation of being about to vomit. It may be accompanied by vomiting or it may occur on its own. Nausea is a common symptom for patients with mesothelioma and with chronic disease, up to 70% of patients with life limiting disease report nausea at one time during their illness. Nausea may be intermittent or persistent. It may be due to a variety of causes including: medications, chemotherapy, acute infectious causes (such as viral gastroenteritis), and vestibular/inner ear problems (with vertigo and unsteady walking), or delayed gastric emptying (due to opioids, mucosal inflammation, or raised intra abdominal pressure due to tumour). Anxiety may cause or exacerbate nausea.

While patients with mesothelioma, that are undergoing chemotherapy, may expect to experience some nausea, all patients should be aware that there are many commonly used medications which can cause nausea. Many commonly used cardiac medications, diuretics, and antibiotics can cause nausea. Oral antidiabetic medications and non-steroidal anti inflammatory medications can cause nausea. Opioid medications can cause nausea and may also to contribute to constipation (which can also cause nausea).

Inactivity with chronic illness can lead to constipation and in turn nausea. Common viral infections can trigger nausea, including acute gastroenteritis and middle ear infections. Chemical and electrolyte imbalances and liver

and kidney impairment may also cause nausea.

An assessment for nausea will require the doctor or nurse taking a medical history and conducting a clinical examination. Blood tests may be drawn to exclude dehydration, renal impairment, and high calcium levels. Correction of any obvious cause and attention to hydration status should help to control the nausea. If untreated nausea will lead to reduced appetite and reduced oral intake with dehydration.

General management strategies to lessen nausea include the following:

•A review of medications and elimination of unnecessary medications in particular those that may cause nausea.

•Taking medications with food (unless specified on the label that the medication must be taken on an empty stomach)

•Consuming small amounts of food and fluids regularly rather than large amounts at one sitting

•Changing the types of foods such as avoiding fatty foods and spicy foods and eating bland food like bread and crackers

•Not eating a large meal prior to lying down in bed may lessen feelings of being bloated

•Regular mouth care and cleaning of teeth

•Avoiding strongly smelling foods and perfumes

Complementary therapies may assist with the treatment of nausea, such as cognitive behavioural therapy for anticipatory nausea, relaxation therapy or distraction, or acupuncture.

Medications to treat nausea may be prescribed. Different anti-emetics (or anti nausea medications) act on different receptors to treat different causes of nausea. Prokinetic agents (like Metoclopramide or Domperidone) aid gastric emptying, Antacids (like Ranitidine and Omeprazole) decrease stomach acid production and aid healing of the stomach lining. Centrally acting medications (like Haloperidol or Prochlorperazine) act on receptors in the chemoreceptor zone. Other medications such as 5HT3 antagonists (like Ondansetron) and Aprepitant can be used to specifically treat chemotherapy induced nausea.

If simple strategies are not effective or if nausea is persistent, further investigations may need to be conducted to determine the cause.

Dr Pretoria bilinski

MBBS FRACP MPallC FAChPM MHA

Medical Oncologist and Palliative Care Physician


Home Building and RenovationsHome, Building & Renovations

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www.asbestos-disease.com.au

THINKING RENOVATION, MAINTENANCE OR DEMOLITION?

Is your structure built pre 1990? Before you start:-

• Have a professional inspection of the building for location, type and condition of any asbestos.

• Seek information on how best to manage and/or remove any asbestos safely.

• To protect you and your family we recommend you use a licensed, qualified professional to remove and dispose of asbestos containing materials no matter how small.

Helpline Toll Free 1800 776 412WE CAN HELP YOU

Asbestos disease has affected many Australians from many walks of life. Not just those suffering from asbestos disease, but family members have been devastated by an asbestos disease diagnosis.

Rugby league great, Trevor Gillmeister, has seen this first hand. His father, Ron Gillmeister developed mesothelioma – an asbestos related cancer, in 2008. Prior to that Ron had been in excellent health. Unfortunately Ron had been heavily exposed to asbestos whilst working as a boilermaker, working with various asbestos materials.

The diagnosis of mesothelioma came as a shock to Ron, Trevor and the entire Gillmeister family. The disease came without warning and was the result of the unprotected asbestos exposure that Ron had sustained in his working life.

Ron unfortunately passed away from his asbestos disease and since then Trevor has been working to raise awareness about asbestos disease issues and is now an ambassador for the Asbestos Related Disease Support Society of Queensland trying to raise awareness about the dangers of exposure to asbestos. Trevor states:

“There is still thousands of tons of asbestos present in our community. This is found in building materials, insulation on steam pipes, some brake linings and other materials. Asbestos was used widely without proper understanding of its dangers. Because there is still so much asbestos present in homes and buildings, we must raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure, otherwise the diagnosis of asbestos disease will never stop.”

The Asbestos Related Disease Support Society of Queensland is trying in many ways to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos and will have a stall at the upcoming Sunday Mail Home Show 2014 to be held from Friday, 29 August to Sunday, 31 August 2014 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre at Southbank. The Society’s stall will contain important information regarding materials containing asbestos, precautions to take and other information relevant to home renovators. Ask yourself, “Why would I put myself, loved ones and others in harm’s way by not ensuring any removal of asbestos containing material is carried out by a trained contractor who knows how to do it safely and properly?”

Who we are:The Asbestos Related Disease Support Society Qld Inc (ARDSSQ) is a not for profit organisation working to provide support for people living with asbestos related diseases and their family members, carers and friends.

Our aim is to reduce the number of people exposed to asbestos and future incidence of asbestos related disease in the Australia community and to help those who have been affected. Contact us:

• For information about asbestos related diseases.

• For help getting legal advice regarding entitlements and other legal issues.

• To register your asbestos exposure.• For advice if you are worried about

asbestos in your home or work. • Require sample testing for asbestos.

Don’t tackle asbestos and home renovations yourself!

• For advice on where to obtain information about safety procedures including personal protective equipment, respirators and asbestos removalist.

asbestos-Disease.com.au phone 1800 776 412

Home, Building & Renovations

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Walk from Townsville to Brisbane to Raise Money and Awareness

In October 2008, Gilly’s father Ron lost his 12-month battle with mesothelioma - the most lethal of all asbestos diseases. Since this loss, Gilly has joined forces with ARDSSQ and is embarking on a month-long walk from Townsville to Brisbane to raise money and awareness.

Gilly will begin his trek on Friday 26 September leaving from Townsville and will arrive in Brisbane Monday 27 October, 2014.

Gilly’s goal is to raise over $100,000.00 for the society.

Please follow his journey on:

facebook Trevor Gillmeister - Taking an Axe to Asbestos: Walk for Awareness or facebook The Queensland Asbestos Disease Support Society

Instagram taking_an_axe_to_asbestos

twitter: @taking_an_axe

hashtag: #axingasbestos

There are many ways you can donate to this mighty campaign

•Everyday Hero https://give.everydayhero.com/au walkforawareness2014

•Sending a cheque or money order to the society office.

•By calling the office and Kerrie and Kay will take credit card details.

•Or our website www.asbestos-disease.com.au and follow the link.

All money donated is tax deductable.

The ARDSSQ toll free number 1800 776 412.

Please share this information with your family and friends.

Let’s help Trevor reach his goal.


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http://www.asbestos-disease.com.au

Updated Asbestos Waste Disposal Information

The Queensland Government’s asbestos website (www.qld.gov.au/asbestos) now includes up to date asbestos waste disposal information.

The revised information includes important disposal guidelines, the requirements for transporting waste and a description of regulated waste transport including information about when an environmental authority is required.

The website also includes an updated list of local council asbestos disposal locations as well as a number of private asbestos waste facilities throughout Queensland. The information on the website is provided as a

guide to asbestos disposal, it is not exhaustive and will be added to over time.

The Queensland Government encourages you to contact the waste facility directly to confirm details, fees, waste tracking requirements and any special arrangements before arriving onsite. Please remember also that asbestos is a ‘regulated waste’ and so there are specific requirements that must be met when it is transported.

For more information please visit the Queensland Government’s asbestos website at www.qld.gov.au/asbestos or call 13 QGoV (13 74 68).


http://www.qld.gov.au/asbestos

http://www.qld.gov.au/asbestos

A Costly CatastropheBy Kirsten Lawson – Canberra Times – 26 August 2014

The expected demolition of up to 1000 Mr Fluffy homes in Canberra will reverberate around the city for years, not only as a massively expensive exercise but one with enormous complications and anguish writ large.

The homes are spread across the city, with Mr Fluffy’s fingers reaching into the most prestigious and expensive streets and suburbs, including Forrest, Yarralumla and Reid, and touching not only the city’s ordinary homes, but also homes worth millions of dollars and homes in heritage areas.

It will take nerve, and not just financial nerve, to demolish and rebuild such homes.

Single-brick homes, like the one demolished recently in Woden Valley, can be taken down quite simply. It is a matter of removing the internal walls, cleaning the remaining asbestos fibres and sealing the interior, before pushing down the brick exterior. Once the cleaning and sealing is done, the demolition is very fast.

Double-brick homes are more difficult to demolish because the load-bearing wall is on the inside.

The team is looking at whether there is a way to demolish them without having to bubble-wrap them, effectively enclosing them in a tent. This would allow the outside wall to be removed first, the asbestos cleaned and the surfaces sealed, before the load-bearing wall can be pushed over, but it is clearly much more expensive.

Whichever way the homes come down, trucks laden with asbestos contaminated building materials will be rumbling through the city to a dumping ground chosen to receive this ignominious legacy of the asbestos era.

An analysis of the homes shows demolition will leave some streets scarred, with seven or more homes in

some streets containing remnants of the loose-fill insulation.

The Canberra Times knows of one street with nine Mr Fluffy homes. Two streets have seven houses each; four streets have six houses each; four streets have five. It is clear Dirk Jansen,whose company installed the asbestos in the 1970s, went from door to door with the product, a pattern that has created pockets of contaminated homes.

The government must also decide what to do about the possibility of contaminated soil on properties where Mr Fluffy homes have been demolished (or burned in the 2003 bushfires) and rebuilt in the meantime. And it must avoid a debacle like the federal insulation scheme, by somehow ensuring sufficient highly professional and scrupulous operators in the asbestos industry to get the job done.

It is recruiting now and must clearly find ways to recruit and train carefully, and to monitor closely. It is difficult to see this part of the program running as smoothly as it must for the safety of neighbours and tradies. The government is also working out how to accommodate the wishes of

people, including some elderly, who are reluctant to leave their long-time home.

Chief Minister Katy Gallagher says she has received letters from people pleading with her not to demolish their homes. She has stopped short of saying they will be exempt from mass demolition, but will be looking process. If people are allowed to stay long term, the government must answer for the safety of the homes – not only for the residents, but for future residents and tradespeople, and for visitors, grandchildren, friends, helpers.

One thousand homes clearly for a way to keep them in their homes, perhaps temporarily, and possibly leaving their houses to the end of what will be a drawn-out cannot be taken down quickly. It took the government four years to remove the bulk of the fibres in the failed clean-up of 1989-93. It remains to be seen how long it takes to demolish and rebuild.

It will clearly cost hundreds of millions of dollars. One housing industry figure said it could cost more than light rail. The question of who pays is just one of many deep difficulties in this troubling affair.

Toxic Legacy: Demolition workers taking down a Mr Fluffy house in Farrer in July


Tags will be Fitted to Meter Boxes of HomesHi-vis warning for tradies

by emmA mAcDonALD – cAnbeRRAtImeS – 19 AuGuSt 2014

Canberra’s Mr Fluffy homes will be required by law to have high visibility tags in their meter boxes to protect the health and safety of tradespeople who may come into contact with loose amosite asbestos still present in homes.

ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher will on Tuesday announce the rollout of the tags in meter boxes for the more than 1000 Mr Fluffy homeowners as they await the review of the Asbestos Response Taskforce. The taskforce is anticipated to recommend all Fluffy homes are ultimately demolished.

Mandatory tags, meantime, will be provided to homeowners as a temporary safety measure for tradespeople.

Their placement in metre boxes will be enforced by ACT WorkSafe which will have the power to fine homeowners without tags up to $3,200 if they refuse to adopt the measure. Made from an industrial strength self-adhesive vinyl, the tags will be required to be affixed to meter boxes with distribution starting in September.

They must be in place by January 1, 2015, after which time it will be an offence not to have one. Tags will be free of charge and homeowners will have the option to affix tags themselves, or have them placed by WorkSafe. Ms Gallagher said “It is important that the government focus not only on those living in affected Mr Fluffy houses, but also apply strategies to protect tradespeople and other workers who may come into contact with affected homes. This

legal requirement to display a tag in the meter box is the latest step to deal with the Mr Fluffy situation and balances the need to ensure tradespeople and workers are aware a home is affected by loose-fill asbestos insulation against the personal interests of homeowners and occupiers who have requested their privacy be respected.”

Ms Gallagher noted that all ACT builders and tradespeople must be trained in asbestos risk – the Government recently mandating that asbestos awareness training for all affected workers must be completed by September 30. Tradespeople were also urged to discuss the circumstance of homes they may be working on with homeowners, ask for copies of any asbestos assessment reports for the property and engage appropriately licensed asbestos experts to assist with the work to be undertaken. “It is also important to note that the law does not absolve a homeowner’s responsibility to inform tradespeople that their home is affected by Mr Fluffy insulation, or to provide a copy of any asbestos assessment report,” Ms Gallagher said. Tags will be available for affected homeowners free of charge from licensed asbestos assessors, WorkSafe ACT and the Asbestos Response Taskforce in coming weeks.


DonationsIn memory of two much loved men

thank you Karen Davis for your donation to go towards this Spring newsletter.

‘In memory of two much loved men’ “What Makes a Dad”

Your dad is a masterpiece made by God as described in this touching poem that shows the special nature of fathers. The author is unknown. “God took the strength of a mountain, The majesty of a tree, The warmth of a summer sun, The calm of a quite sea, The generous soul of nature, the comforting arm of night, The wisdom of the ages, The power of the eagle’s flight The joy of a morning spring, The faith of a mustard seed, The patience of eternity, The depth of a family need, Then God combined these qualities, When there was nothing more to add, He knew His masterpiece was complete, And so, He called it… Dad.”

thank you hutchinson builders and Gary Partridge for your generous donations to the society.

Pictured: Managing Director of Hutchinson Builders Greg Quinn, Helen Colbert President ARDSSQ, Gary Partridge – CFMEU Delegate, Our volunteers, Wendy Towerton, Bev Robertson, Trish Ramsay, Rod Towerton and Ross Lindsay and Kerrie Williams.

We would like to thank Reel Image Video and Multimedia for their ongoing support.

Arthur Raymond Hutchins 9.3.1934 – 30.5.2004

Lee Raymond Hutchins 2.12.65 – 8.3.2014


HIA Sunday Mail Home ShowFriday 29 August – Sunday 31 August 2014

HIA Sunday Mail Home Show

Friday 29 August – Sunday 31 August 2014brisbane convention and exhibition centre

During the recent HIA Sunday Mail Home Show, the Society along with Work Place Health and Safety Qld, Turner Freeman Lawyers, industry representatives:- Allens Industrial Products Pty Ltd, Parsons Brinckerhoff and the Asbestos Industry Association, assisted in manning an asbestos awareness and information stand informing members of the community to the dangers of asbestos exposure and how easily exposure to asbestos can occur through incorrect identification and handling.

As well as this the industry representatives fielded many questions from the community relating to house hold maintenance and identification of asbestos containing materials, to how much does it cost to have a sample tested? And what cost is involved in having the asbestos containing material (ACM) removed.

I would like to thank everyone involved for their tremendous effort in preparing the information kits, manning the stand over the three days from 9am till 5pm the transporting of equipment and information materials, as well as set up and dismantling of the display. A feature at this years home show was a purpose built model named:-

“Asbestos Safety House”

Showing where asbestos containing materials could be found in the home.

The model of the Asbestos Safety House created a lot of interest from the visitors to the stand. Further information on the Asbestos Safety House can be found on page 19.

Volunteers who helped make the display a success are listed below:

David AgudeloTyson AllenTravis AllenThady BlundellLisa BroadbentCarl ColbertHelen ColbertRob Davis Ciaran EhrichTrevor Gillmeister

Thank you for your continued support.

Ross LindsayBud NeilandAndrew Ramsay Trish Ramsay Kay RavbarBev RobertsonMichael ShepherdRod TowertonWendy TowertonKerrie Williams


A new asbestos safety house, displayed for the first time at the Brisbane Home Show in August, showed the public a model domestic house highlighting some of the common locations where asbestos can be found.

The model house was purpose built for the show to help increase the awareness of home renovators and tradespeople who may be unaware of the hidden dangers of asbestos.

The asbestos safety house shows several exterior profile materials that were used as cladding and which contain asbestos, such as Super Six corrugated roofs, Coverline, imitation brick, flat asbestos cement sheets and Hardi plank exteriors.

The house’s interior shows where asbestos can be found in wall sheeting, often behind paint, tiles or wallpaper. Other locations include the backing of sheet vinyl flooring. Each of the locations in the house was marked with a ‘hot spot’ label to identify it as possibly containing asbestos.

Visitors to the display were enthusiastic about the house and many were surprised to learn that asbestos could be found in their pre-1990 home, in a multitude of places.

It is estimated that more than 1,000,000 homes across Australia contain some asbestos in more than 3000 asbestos products and applications. It’s important to remind home renovators and tradespeople to check, before they begin work, whether the material they’re

going to work on contains asbestos to avoid exposing themselves and others to asbestos fibres.

Visitors to the display were advised to play it safe around asbestos materials and if they weren’t sure whether a material contained asbestos, to have it checked by a specialist first. If they were planning a renovation, they were advised to get in touch with an asbestos consultant or specialist.

The asbestos safety house has proven to be a valuable educational and awareness tool for the Queensland Government. It will be used at future events to raise awareness of asbestos.

for more information about asbestos in your home, visit www.qld.gov.au/asbestos or call 13 QGoV (13 74 68).

Raising the Roof on Asbestos Awareness


Support Those Who Support The Society

your consideration of these organisations would be greatly appreciated— their assistance is invaluable

Corporate Members

The contact details for all of our corporate sponsors and corporate members are available by ringing

the ARDSSQ office on 1800 776 412

ARDSSQ is an endorsed charity (ABN 29 150 479 514).Membership and donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.

We thank all members for their ongoing support.

Air Liquide Healthcare Pty Ltd AMWU - Your Rights at Work

Australian Institute of Marine & Power Engineers

Australian Rail, Tram & Bus Industries UnionAustralian Services Union

Aust Federated Union of Locomotive Employees

Beaudesert RSL sub-branchCEPU Plumbing Union – Qld Branch

CEPU Electrical Division – Qld BranchChemmart Loganholme

Communication Workers UnionCPSU (Community & Public Sector Union)

DOTS Allied Health Services Pty LtdHigh Street Underwriting Agency Pty Ltd

Logan FuneralsNiagara Therapy

PFG Financial ServicesQueensland Independent Education UnionQueensland Nurses Union of Employees

United VoiceWorkplace Health & Safety Queensland

Corporate Sponsors

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SUPPORT THOSE WHO SUPPORT THE SOCIETY SponCorporate sors

Trident Trades & Labour Hire

Your consideration of these organisations would be greatly appreciated —their assistance is invaluable

Corporate Members

Air Liquide Healthcare Pty Ltd AMWU - Your Rights at Work Australian Institute of Marine & Power Engineers Australian Rail, Tram & Bus Industries Union Australian Services Union Aust Federated Union of Locomotive Employees Beaudesert RSL sub-branch Builders Labourers Federation CEPU Plumbing Union – Qld Branch CEPU Electrical Division – Qld Branch Chemmart Loganholme

Communication Workers Union CPSU (Community & Public Sector Union) DOTS Allied Health Services Pty Ltd High Street Underwriting Agency Pty Ltd Logan Funerals Niagara Therapy PFG Financial Services Queensland Independent Education Union Queensland Nurses Union of Employees Safe Work College of Workplace Health & Safety United Voice Workplace Health & Safety Queensland

The contact details for all of our corporate sponsors and

corporate members are available by ringing

the QARDSS office on 1800 776 412.

QARDSS is an endorsed charity (ABN 29 150 479 514).

Membership and donations of $2.00 or more are tax deductible.


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Corporate Members









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Corporate Members










Documents

Spring Newsletter - adss.org.au · Turner Freeman Lawyers Workplace Health & Safety Qld ... Redcliffe and Prince Charles Hospital ... Square on 2nd October